Multiple Intelligences The concept of Multiple Intelligences in human learning was formulated by Howard Gardner in the early 1960’s. He continues his work today and is a renowned leader in the field of education. A few words from his biography—
“Howard Gardner is the John H. and Elisabeth A.Hobbs Professor of Cognition and Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. He also holds positions as Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Harvard University and Senior Director of Harvard Project Zero. Among numerous honors, Gardner received a MacArthur Prize Fellowship in 1981. He has received honorary degrees from 26 colleges and universities, including institutions in Bulgaria, Chile, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, and South Korea.
During the past two decades, Gardner and colleagues at Project Zero have been involved in the design of performance-based assessments; education for understanding; the use of multiple intelligences to achieve more personalized curriculum, instruction, and pedagogy; and the quality of interdisciplinary efforts in education.” (http://www.howardgardner.com/)
Gardner’s theory initially defined seven different types of intelligence. He published the initial list in 1983 in his book Frames of Mind//
Gardner’s first seven intelligences are
Linguistic—speaking, reading and writing
Mathematical—logical problem solving
Musical—recognizing pitch and rhythm, performing and composing
Kinesthetic—moving and doing
Spatial—using patterns and space
Interpersonal—understanding other people
Intrapersonal—understanding of self
In 1999, an eighth intelligence was added; “Naturalist Intelligence,” which reflects an ability to work with nature. The concepts of spiritual, existential, and moral intelligences are currently being debated.
How this pertains to my Classroom: All humans possess intelligence in all areas, and each of us have both strengths and weaknesses in our own intelligences. This applies to students and instructors alike, and as partners in learning we are always striving to improve our skills and instructional methods.
Specific suggestions for using Gardner’s theory in the class:
Educate students about the topic
Student and instructor self assessment and reflection around their intelligences and learning styles.
Use a variety of instructional techniques and means of assessment in course design and implementation, for example:
1. Linguistic—reading and writing assignments.
2. Math —industry specific problems. For nurses, problems include medication calculations and safety, body weights, BMIs, etc.
3. Musical-find or create a music video that educates us on a topic we are studying
4. Bodily/Kinesthetic—hands on practice in lab and clinical sites
5. Spatial-Problem solve the best set up for performing a sterile procedure efficiently and comfortably.
6. Interpersonal-Role play, small and large group discussions
7. Intrapersonal-Ongoing self evaluations and reflections on practice and skills
8. Naturalist-Guided walk and reflection on the benefits of routine outdoor exercise when studying applicable topics, i.e. obesity, diabetes, and mental health.
Solicit ongoing customer (student) feedback around content and process in the classroom.
Actively seek and implement interventions suggested/requested and agreed to by students and faculty.
Multiple Intelligences
The concept of Multiple Intelligences in human learning was formulated by Howard Gardner in the early 1960’s. He continues his work today and is a renowned leader in the field of education. A few words from his biography—
“Howard Gardner is the John H. and Elisabeth A.Hobbs Professor of Cognition and Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. He also holds positions as Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Harvard University and Senior Director of Harvard Project Zero. Among numerous honors, Gardner received a MacArthur Prize Fellowship in 1981. He has received honorary degrees from 26 colleges and universities, including institutions in Bulgaria, Chile, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, and South Korea.
During the past two decades, Gardner and colleagues at Project Zero have been involved in the design of performance-based assessments; education for understanding; the use of multiple intelligences to achieve more personalized curriculum, instruction, and pedagogy; and the quality of interdisciplinary efforts in education.” (http://www.howardgardner.com/)
Follow the links below to learn more about Howard Gardner and his work. The first link is to his web site, the second is to a series of videos he’s recorded c PBS.
http://www.howardgardner.com/
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/gperf/education/ed_mi_overview.html
Gardner’s theory initially defined seven different types of intelligence. He published the initial list in 1983 in his book Frames of Mind//
Gardner’s first seven intelligences are
In 1999, an eighth intelligence was added; “Naturalist Intelligence,” which reflects an ability to work with nature. The concepts of spiritual, existential, and moral intelligences are currently being debated.
How this pertains to my Classroom:
All humans possess intelligence in all areas, and each of us have both strengths and weaknesses in our own intelligences. This applies to students and instructors alike, and as partners in learning we are always striving to improve our skills and instructional methods.
Specific suggestions for using Gardner’s theory in the class:
1. Linguistic—reading and writing assignments.
2. Math —industry specific problems. For nurses, problems include medication calculations and safety, body weights, BMIs, etc.
3. Musical-find or create a music video that educates us on a topic we are studying
4. Bodily/Kinesthetic—hands on practice in lab and clinical sites
5. Spatial-Problem solve the best set up for performing a sterile procedure efficiently and comfortably.
6. Interpersonal-Role play, small and large group discussions
7. Intrapersonal-Ongoing self evaluations and reflections on practice and skills
8. Naturalist-Guided walk and reflection on the benefits of routine outdoor exercise when studying applicable topics, i.e. obesity, diabetes, and mental health.